Although photographer, artist, photo-essayist and music video director Stéphane Sednaoui is known for being multi-talented, his fashion photography is not exactly what he is famous for. Having not shot a notable fashion ad campaign since Etro Spring 2007, it comes as a bit of a surprise that he was appointed to shoot top model Karlie Kloss for the new Jean Paul Gaultier campaign, even if Sednaoui and Gaultier have previously collaborated on the JPG for Diet Coke campaign. The result, however, is far from underwhelming. Sednaoui’s unique style and his way of transcending genres are displayed in its best form in the arresting image that was released as a preview for the campaign yesterday.
“What a captivating and strong photo! Karlie keeps getting better and better. Her intense stare, the styling and photography all together form an excellent combination. But well, I’ve always loved JPG’s ads,” wrote yesitsdagny.
Thatsfierce and justaguy both found that the ad looked “promising.”
“This is truly stunning. Karlie just exudes supermodel!” exclaimed Nepenthes.
And alonsoJonathan also credited the model for the brilliancy of the ad: “Wow this is so simple yet it has all it needs for a great ad. Karlie really make this work any other model wouldn’t make this look as good as she does. She really is a major Print model.”
While I agree that Karlie truly shines here, I am not sure I agree that the shot is simple. There is obviously a lot of conceptualization and post-production involved here, as well as the styling being rather extravagant. And clearly, it’s not just the model that makes this image so outstanding, even if the model choice is what the majority of tFS forum members pointed out. Endorsing Sednaoui to shoot the dynamic and energetic Karlie Kloss was a brilliant idea and, to me, this is a product of a great collection inspiring a fantastic concept for a campaign, executed perfectly by the right photographer and model and stylist. This image is convincing on every level, and I guess I am not only speaking for myself when I say I am excited to see more!
